The Power of Advocacy: How One Autism Mom is Making a Difference

How can you describe your Autism mom's Journey?

"The journey has truly been a rollercoaster, marked by moments of both triumph and hardship that at times felt overwhelming. Despite the challenges that almost made us feel like we might lose our grip, we stood firm and remained determined. In the end, I am wholeheartedly committed to accepting him for who he is, while working to make the world a better place for him and others with disabilities."

 How did you feel when you received the diagnosis of your son? Did you have support from family and friends?

I felt very lost, like a grieving state of mind, everything I thought or had imagined life would be like was much different with my son’s diagnosis. While we were surrounded by both, supportive and unsupportive friends and family, these experiences ultimately strengthened us.

2. What inspired you to use your experience as an autism parent to support and empower the community?" 

My son, seeing him face challenges and setbacks impacted us, driving my commitment to advocate for other families facing similar difficulties. His journey has inspired us to ensure that others do not experience the same sense of confusion and struggle that we once endured.

3. What projects are you working on right now? 

We continue to work on providing resources, support, and training in Spanish and English for families to empower families of children & adults with disabilities as they navigate the complex special education, health care, and disabilities services systems. 

4. How do you want to impact your community?

Engaging and working for respected organizations like Family To Family Network, Children Like Loni, and other influential groups committed to making a positive impact in the community. Our goal is to showcase that collaborative efforts, no matter how small, can result in meaningful change for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to lead the fulfilling lives they rightfully deserve.

5. As special needs parents our kids teach us lessons every day. What is something you have learned from your son with Autism? 

It is essential to cherish the small aspects of life, as they often hold greater significance than we realize and most definitely that love needs no words.

 6.Being a parent of a child with special needs can be incredibly stressful. What strategies or practices have helped you in your journey that you would like to share with our readers?

It is important to seek support and acquire knowledge. The more you learn, the greater the progress you and your loved one with a disability can achieve.

7. As a special needs mom, What tips can you give to parents of special needs teens/adults? 

 It is essential to acknowledge the fundamental reality of life: despite our desire for permanence, we are not eternal. Therefore, we must equip our loved ones with the essential skills and knowledge they will need to navigate life in our absence. So they can discover possibilities, see the potential and advocate for what they need to achieve their dreams. 

8. What advice will you give to fellow autism moms who are starting this Journey as a special needs parent?

My advice to parents embarking on this journey is to practice self-compassion and prioritize self-care. As the cornerstone of the family, it is essential to ensure your well-being, as this directly impacts the health and happiness of those around you.

9. How can other Autism moms reach you?

Facebook “Lionela Castillo” 

Email: lionela@f2fn.org

713-466-6304 ext:101

https://f2fn.org